This paper on "Modelling Composite Structural Failure by Finite Elements" was presented at the 5th International Conference on Reliability of Finite Element Methods for Engineering Applications - 10-12 May 1995, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

Summary

This paper addresses the prediction of failure in laminated composite structures, when the failure is due to through-thickness interlaminar or intercomponent stresses. It is shown that a local-global strategy may be necessary using two solution passes. The issue of how to start failure, based on strength or fracture toughness, is examined for a large variety of problems coming from separate research programmes.